In the south of central Crete: Palace of Festos above the Mesara plain.

Palace of Phaistos
Palace of Phaistos on Crete: Unveiling the Minoan Civilization’s Legacy
In the heart of the Mesara plain in the south of Crete lie the impressive ruins of the Palace of Phaistos (sometimes also called ‘Festos’), an important testimony to the island’s turbulent past.
After about 4 1/4 miles (7 km) in western direction from the destroyed, former Roman provincial capital Gortys and the small town of Mires, one reaches the ruins of the Palace of Festos.
The palace is particularly impressive and, unlike Knossos, have not been restored. Also, the magnificent location of the palace on a hill above the Mesara plain and overlooking the often snow-capped peaks of the Psiloritis mountains makes the visit worthwhile.
History
This ancient Minoan palace, a marvel of a civilization known for its artistry and architectural prowess, offers a captivating testimony to the Bronze Age inhabitants of Crete.
Its strategic location allowed it to overlook fertile land and the nearby sea, and it is an impressive testament to Minoan influence and culture.
The historical significance of Phaistos and the mysteries it embodies captivate us.
Phaistos is known for being less reconstructed compared to the better known Knossos and offers a more authentic insight into the Minoan period.
A tour of the remaining halls, storerooms and courtyards invites you to imagine life in a time when this complex was a center for political and religious activities.
As we explore the palace grounds, we come across remains that inspire discussions about technology, trade and the social hierarchy of the time.
The palace is primarily associated with the famous Disc of Phaistos – an enigmatic artifact with a code that has yet to be deciphered.
On a journey through the corridors of Phaistos, we cross the border between the known and the unknown and stimulate our imagination about the advanced civilization that once flourished on the shores of Crete.
Historical context and discovery
The Palace of Phaistos, an integral part of the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete, offers a deep insight into the Bronze Age.
The Italian archaeologist Federico Halbherr discovered it and unearthed artifacts such as the enigmatic Phaistos Disc during his excavations.
The Minoan era and the importance of Phaistos
Phaistos, located in the fertile Mesara plain near the village of Matala, was one of the most important centers of Crete during the Minoan civilization.
Phaistos, which emerged in the late Neolithic period and reached its peak in the Middle Minoan era, was a cultural and political center that rivaled the famous Knossos.
Phaistos was one of the oldest and most important cities on Crete. At the height of its power, the city dominated the entire Mesara plain as far as Cape Lithinos with the two ports of Matala and Kommos.
This importance extended over two important periods: the Protopalatial (Old Palace) and Neopalatial (New Palace) periods, both of which reflect the advanced social and architectural development of Minoan civilization.
Important artifacts:
The Disc of Phaistos, a clay disk with a spiral sequence of symbols, remains one of the site’s most mysterious finds. Its purpose and significance are still disputed, which adds to the allure of Minoan archaeology.
Archaeological excavations and researchers
The discovery of the ancient city, which was called Phaistos in antiquity, was based on information from Strabo. It was also mentioned by Homer and the historian Diodorus, who listed Festos as one of the three cities founded by King Minos. The palace is said to have been inhabited by his brother Rhadamanthys.
It has been confirmed that the site has existed since the end of the Neolithic period, but it reached its greatest importance during the period of the new palaces and still existed after the catastrophe of 1,450 BC, as evidenced by parts of buildings from the Geometric period and ruins from the Archaic period, as well as a temple of Rhea.
The first palace was built around 1,900 to 1,850 BC, but was destroyed in an earthquake in 1,700 BC. However, construction of a majestic new palace complex began immediately on the ruins of the old one. Most of the ruins that can be visited today belong to the new palace.
The new palace was also destroyed in the catastrophe of 1,450 BC and all that remained was a settlement on its slope, which increasingly lost importance to the rising Gortys.
The city was only destroyed by its neighboring rival Gortys at the end of the 3rd century BC.
As an independent and autonomous city, Phaistos minted many of its own coins and produced important personalities, such as the theologian and shaman Theosophistis Epimenides, one of the ‘Seven Sages’ of antiquity.
The first excavation of Phaistos was carried out by the Italian archaeologist Federico Halbherr in 1900. His work paved the way for further discoveries at the site, including the work of Luigi Pernier, who discovered the Phaistos Disc in 1908.
Archaeologist Doro Levi continued her research in the mid-20th century, shedding further light on the Minoan world and establishing links between Festos and other important sites such as Agia Triada.
The excavations are still ongoing and also relate to the ancient Minoan and Hellenistic city.
Most important contributions:
Halbherr and Pernier made seminal contributions to our understanding of the Minoan period.
The finds from Phaistos are on display at the Archeological Museum of Heraklion and provide a tangible link to the island’s ancient past.
Architecture and design
Exploring the architectural marvel that is the Palace of Phaistos, we find a masterful combination of function and aesthetics, closely interwoven with the cultural and religious life of the Minoans.
Construction and structure
We can see that the palace of Phaistos was carefully designed and has a central floor plan, as is common for Minoan palaces.
Its arrangement around a spacious central courtyard underlines the importance of this area as the center of activity.
The west courtyard and the east courtyard allowed for gatherings and possibly rituals, while the integration of storage rooms, known as magazines, allowed for efficient use of the space for storage purposes.
Central courtyard and surrounding building complex
The central courtyard itself is flanked by a large number of rooms.
The New Palace, which was built on top of the Old Palace after its destruction, surrounds the courtyard, while the theatrical area is a place where the public could attend religious or community events.
The adjoining Upper West Courtyard may have been an extension of the capacity of the central complex.
Royal apartments and religious sites
The private quarters, the royal apartments, are an enigma within the Minoan palace. In these rooms we find opulent artifacts and frescoes that indicate a luxurious life.
The cult center represents the religious aspects of Minoan life and often houses lustral basins and shrines.
The careful layout of the megaron, with access through a propylon, indicates a mixture of administrative and sacred functions, combining both the secular and the divine.
Artifacts and inscriptions
The Palace of Phaistos is known for its rich collection of Minoan artifacts and inscriptions, including the enigmatic Disc of Phaistos and numerous tablets with the still undeciphered Linear A script.
We find that these artifacts not only reflect the advanced craftsmanship of the Minoans, but also provide insights into their complex social and religious practices.
The Disc of Phaistos and the Linear A tablets
The Disc of Phaistos is a unique artifact that has captivated scholars and laymen alike.
The discus is made of clay and is characterized by its spiral arrangement of engraved symbols that have not yet been deciphered. It is thought to date from the middle or late Minoan Bronze Age.
Linear A, on the other hand, is the script mainly used by the Minoan civilization, of which we find examples on various clay tablets and artefacts on Crete.
Despite extensive research, the Linear A script remains a mystery, as we are not yet able to translate it completely.
These clay tablets often have seal impressions and ideograms, which are being studied to understand administrative and economic aspects of Minoan society.
Pottery, art and symbolism
The palace of Phaistos has produced a wealth of pottery, ranging from simple utilitarian objects to magnificently decorated ceremonial pieces.
The motif of the double axe, a symbol closely associated with Minoan culture, is frequently used in various media such as ceramics, frescoes and metalwork.
Made of clay, metal and other materials, these artifacts often feature intricate designs and testify to both the aesthetic sensibility and technical skills of the artisans.
In addition, we come across various symbols and ideograms that are thought to represent different deities, animals and aspects of Minoan life, deepening our understanding of their art and iconography.
Conservation and tourism
In this section, we look at the significant steps that have been taken to preserve the Palace of Phaostos and provide practical advice for visitors to this historic treasure.
Conservation efforts and restoration
The conservation of the Palace of Phaistos is of the utmost importance as it is of great historical significance.
Conservation programs led by the Italian Archaeological School have played an important role in both the restoration and ongoing maintenance of this ancient site.
These efforts are crucial in mitigating the damage caused by past earthquakes and ensuring the structural integrity of the site.
Progress has also been made on sanitation and visitor safety, increasing the sustainability of the site.
Visiting Festos: Insights for travelers
We recommend checking the opening times before planning a visit to ensure the best possible experience.
Once there, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding Messara plain.
Those interested in more details and artifacts from Festos can visit the Museum of Heraklion, where important pieces from the site are on display.
As for nearby attractions, the seaside village of Matala offers a pleasant detour with its own historical charm.
Please remember that our respectful visit while exploring will help to preserve these relics for future generations.
Begin your visit via the raised and stone-paved courtyard of the old palace on the west side. In the southwest corner of the courtyard, you descend the stairs to the west courtyard of the palace, which is paved with stones and also dates back to the old palace.
At the northern end are 8 steps, each 22 meters long, which were used as seats for the theater area. This is considered the oldest theater in history.
From here, a processional road leads to the Propylaea, where you can reach the many small apartments.
Further ahead is an outer space, a light well with three pillars, a staircase with a narrow staircase leading down to an entrance hall and storage rooms.
South of the corridor there are sacred and religious rooms. From the entrance hall one goes to the stone-paved central courtyard, which is interspersed with irregular patterns of ‘porous’ stones.
In the north-eastern part of the court is a Polythyra (‘many doors’) typical for the Minoans, an outdoor light fountain, an antechamber and a pleasure pool, and it is certainly a religious section of the palace. The east wing is almost completely broken off from the slope.
Through a corridor on the north side of the central courtyard, one reaches the entrance to the royal chambers, which are located in the northern part of the palace. Through an exterior corridor and to a small courtyard, one enter the luxurious chamber of the queen. A narrow staircase leads to rooms which must have been the king’s dwelling.
There was probably another floor over the royal chambers, which must have been of representation rooms.
An independent complex of buildings from the pre-Palaeolithic period, which was also used during the time of the new palace, lies further north-east. The Disc of Phaostos, the most important piece of the palace, was found in one of the long, narrow storage rooms, which must have served as a treasury.
More photos of Palace of Phaistos
To the photo gallery of the Palace of Phaistos
Video from the view of the mountains of Psiloritis
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we cover some of the most common inquiries related to the Palace of Phaistos, shedding light on its historical significance, visiting details, and more.
What is the history behind the Palace of Phaistos?
The Palace of Phaistos, a significant Minoan archaeological site in Crete, reflects a rich history dating back to approximately 2000 BC.
It served as an administrative and religious hub of the Minoan civilization and is recognized for its intricate architecture and advanced urban planning.
How can one purchase tickets to visit the Palace of Phaistos?
Tickets to visit the Palace of Phaistos can be purchased on-site at the entrance gate.
Visitors may also find options to buy combined tickets, including access to other nearby historical sites.
When are the opening times for the Palace of Phaistos?
The Palace of Phaistos generally operates from morning to late afternoon.
Opening hours vary by season, so it’s recommended to confirm the current times prior to planning a visit, as they could be subject to changes.
From April to October: Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm, Sundays from 8 am to 3 pm.
From November to March: daily from 8 am to 3 pm.
What is the significance of the Phaistos Disc found at the site?
The Phaistos Disc, discovered at the site in 1908, is a unique clay artifact inscribed with mysterious symbols that form a spiral text.
It is considered significant due to its potential insight into the undeciphered Minoan language and its advanced printing method for the era.
How does the Palace of Phaistos contribute to the understanding of Minoan civilization?
The Palace of Phaistos is pivotal for understanding the Minoan civilization due to its well-preserved architectural structures, impressive frescoes, and various artifacts that demonstrate the social, cultural, and economic aspects of Minoan life.
What led to the destruction of the Palace of Phaistos?
The Palace of Phaistos was destroyed around the 15th century BC, likely due to a natural disaster, such as an earthquake.
The evidence suggests that it was not rebuilt after its destruction, unlike other Minoan sites, signaling a decline in the Minoan civilization.
Directions to Festos
Link to map with directions:
Click here: Directions Festos.